Privacy

The Netherlands Ministry of Defence handles your personal data with the utmost care.

What do we use your personal data for?

We use your personal data on Defensie.nl for:

  • Handling questions, complaints and requests (including the right to access).
  • Registration for activities such as open days and family events.
  • Awarding the Mobilisation War Cross.
  • Subscription to Defence magazines.
  • Data on website traffic.

The Ministry of Defence has a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) register. This includes a brief description of:

  • the types of data that are processed;
  • why these data are collected;
  • what is done with the data;
  • who is responsible for the processing of data.

Why do we ask for your personal data?

We will use your data to be able to meet your request. We ask for as little personal data as possible. This data is anonymised for data on website traffic.

How do we process your personal data?

Our own personnel handle your question, complaint or request. We do not share your data with third parties. If you use the 'Share this page' button, there is a possibility that the social media channel you are sharing on may add it to your profile as an 'interest'.

What are your privacy rights?

You can find information on your privacy rights on the privacy rights page.

How long do we store your personal data?

As soon as we have answered your question, complaint or request, or processed your application, authorisation or registration, we delete your personal data from our systems. For the handling of questions, complaints and requests, a period of 10 years applies for requests under the Government Information (Public Access) Act. For objection, appeal and complaints this is 10 years. For more information, see the Defence Selection List (in Dutch). If you subscribe to Defence magazines, your data is retained until you cancel your subscription.

How do we protect your personal data?

The Ministry of Defence has taken measures to protect personal data. This is set out in detail in the Defence Security Policy. With regard to recently classified and/or vital Defence tasks, external organisations must meet the General Security Requirements for Defence Contracts 2019 (ABDO 2019). For more information, please contact the Military Intelligence and Security Service.

Personal data may be used for investigation

The Ministry of Defence may pass on personal data for investigation purposes if criminal offences are committed or criminal statements are made via the site.

Data Protection Officer

The Ministry of Defence has an independent supervisor who oversees the proper processing of personal data in accordance with the applicable legislation and standards. This Data Protection Officer has the power to:

  • request information;
  • access all documents;
  • access all locations where personal data are processed.

The Data Protection Officer is also responsible for the GDPR processing register. This is the register in which the notifications of registrations (processing of personal data) are entered at the Ministry of Defence.

The Data Protection Officer does not have any supervisory powers for the Defence Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD).

Contact

Do you have a complaint?

Information on how to file a complaint can be found on the complaint about the use of personal data page.